Back To Sleep Campaign: Keep Baby In Back Sleeping Position to Help Prevent SIDS

SIDS or the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is a mysterious malady affecting babies more than a month old.  This is more commonly known as “cot death” or “crib death” in some parts of the world.  It has been extensively studied and researched to identify its causes.  

Though there are speculated associations to this ailment, SIDS still remains without adequate medical explanation. Despite its lack of definite identifying causes, the good news is there are observed best practices that parents can do to prevent SIDS.

Back to Sleep Campaign

The Back to Sleep Campaign began in the late 80s through the 90s and is still being promoted today.  It has been reported that in the Chinese custom where the supine infant sleeping position (face up) is being practiced, SIDS is a very rare case.  Different countries followed suit since then and true enough, the incidence of SIDS lowered significantly.

How to Keep Baby in Back Sleeping Position

Back sleeping is the safest sleeping position for your baby and may be the best protection against SIDS.  You would like to make sure that your baby does not roll over unto his stomach during sleep.  There are a number of ways to do this.

• Put your baby to sleep in a firm mattress.  Soft mattresses, sofa cushions, waterbeds, and the like is a no-no.  Your baby can easily turn on his side and unto his stomach in soft surfaces.  Remove fluffy stuff such as pillows, stuffed toys, etc. from the crib.
• Be careful with the blanket.  If you use a blanket, position your baby with his feet at the end of the crib and place the blanket no higher than his chest, then tuck the ends of the blanket under the crib’s mattress to ensure safety. Be careful not to let your baby overheat during sleep.  The blanket being used must be appropriate to room temperature and weather conditions.
• Use a Baby Hammock.  More and more modern baby hammocks are made available in the market.  They promote sleep safety and reduction of the risks of SIDS.  
• Use Baby Sleep Positioners.   There are many types of baby sleep positioners used for different purposes.  A baby sleep positioner called “baby bolsters” is used to keep baby in a back sleeping position.  It is a mat with cylindrical cushions attached to either side of it.  This prevents the baby from rolling over and creates the feelings of snugness and comfort. Baby bolsters are comfortable and secure but it still allows your baby’s arms and legs to move freely.

Freelance Contributor: Hazel Zanoria